19-05-2025
Colorado immigration activist Jeanette Vizguerra wins Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award
DENVER (KDVR) — A Colorado immigration activist facing deportation after being detained by immigration officials in March is one of the latest recipients of the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award.
Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, an organization that aims to pursue the late senator and former attorney general's 'dream of a more just and peaceful world' through litigation, business and education efforts, every year awards 'champions of social justice who stand up to oppression, even at great personal risk, in the nonviolent pursuit of human rights.'
City breaks ground on $2M renovation of La Raza Park
For their 2025 class of award recipients, the organization recognized Colorado's Jeanette Vizguerra, along with Maine Gov. Janet Mills and former U.S. Department of Justice Pardon Attorney Elizabeth Oyer.
'As the daughter of our former attorney general, I know firsthand the necessity of protecting and preserving our democracy,' said Kerry Kennedy, president of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights. 'From taking a stand against unlawful executive orders and bolstering the moral strength of the Department of Justice to advocating for vulnerable immigrants, these women have chosen to stand up for their beliefs during a time when it is increasingly difficult to do so. I'm honored to recognize Governor Mills, Elizabeth Oyer, and Jeanette Vizguerra, and I hope that this award is a beacon of hope for others like them.'
ICE took Vizguerra into custody on March 17 and said that she illegally entered the U.S. and has a final order of deportation. Vizguerra's legal team has since petitioned under the argument that there was no valid removal order to detain Vizguerra.
Vizguerra came to the U.S. from Mexico in 1997 with her husband and eldest daughter and has fought her deportation and for immigrant rights since 2009. She took refuge in a Denver church in 2017 during President Donald Trump's first term, and her legal team has said her targeting and detainment in March were politically motivated.
She was also recognized in 2017 as one of Time Magazine's most influential people for her efforts.
This Denver metro suburb is among the fastest growing American cities: US Census
'Recently, while detained in a detention center, I received the news that I had received this human rights award. I thank RFK Human Rights for this honor,' Vizguerra said in a press release.
She said she has used her own resources in her fight for immigration rights and hopes to continue doing so.
'The government wants to silence my voice, but I will continue to sow rebellion until I reap freedom,' Vizguerra said. 'This award is not only for me but for every person who has been involved in my life—especially my children and my immigrant community. I hope our voices are never silenced.'
Mills, Oyer, and Vizguerra will be recognized during a public ceremony on June 5 at the Kennedy Caucus Room in the Russell Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
